Discovery Learning Vs. Direct Instruction

Have you ever debated between discovery learning type of lessons or direct instruction lessons?

We have been in a debate in our math department about direct instruction vs. discovery learning. Which is better for students? One of the math teachers came across this article shortly after we were asked to include more discovery learning in our lessons. I am completely on both sides for this one and feel that a mixture of both types of instruction is best. However, I am finding that the discovery learning does NOT work in my co-taught classes (well, MOST of the kids I have in my co-taught class). My co-taught class is mixed with very low functioning kids to kids who score perfect scores on their papers every time. Discovery learning is GREAT for the higher functioning students, while discovery learning for the lower functioning students seems to be a waste of a class period. One thing that I enjoy with the discovery learning is it gives me time to focus more time on the students who really need it. The article below is a great read about where discovery learning works best.

http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250&pub=xa-4a796db05610a5c2